One of the Royal Navy's most advanced warships has set sail for a five-month counter-piracy operation.

HMS Dauntless left its home at Portsmouth Naval Base, Hampshire, for the routine deployment to the Gulf where it will also be carrying out patrols to ensure the safe passage of merchant vessels.

The Type 45 destroyer will make several stops in the Mediterranean for training as well as visiting ports in a number of Gulf States to strengthen ties in the region.

Commanding officer, Commander Adrian Fryer, said: "This will be a high profile deployment for Dauntless during which we will provide reassurance to the UK's allies in the region, while conducting maritime security and counter-piracy patrols. HMS Dauntless has been through intense training to be in a position to undertake this deployment and I am immensely proud of my ship's company."

Able Seaman Sam Whitehead said: "I am really looking forward to going away with HMS Dauntless, this is my first deployment and I'm really excited to be doing something so important."

The ship and its crew will be marking the centenary of the Gallipoli Campaign on its way home when it will transit the Dardanelles to take part in organised events to mark the anniversary.

Cdr Fryer said: "It will be a great privilege for Dauntless to support the centenary and remember the immense bravery and sacrifices that were made there."